"Father... I understand..."
Uchiha Minamoto had called Uchiha Itachi over only out of his obligation as a fellow clansman, to inform him of the news about his father.
As for anything else, Uchiha Minamoto said no more.
He simply patted Uchiha Itachi lightly on the shoulder.
Then he turned and walked toward the other side of the camp.
"Tenzo."
"Here."
Yamato set down his work and straightened his back.
"I'll be leaving the camp for a while."
Uchiha Minamoto spoke calmly.
"While I'm away, you'll be responsible for managing the camp and its defenses."
"Yes, Advisor!"
Without hesitation, Yamato immediately accepted the order.
Uchiha Minamoto nodded. Without further explanation, he used [Divine Lightning], and his figure vanished from the spot.
The situation on the Northern Front had changed.
Fourth Raikage A had seized the opportunity while he was away from the Northern Front helping the Eastern Front, returning with Kumogakure's forces.
Although Shisui Uchiha had ridden [Yatagarasu] to reinforce the battlefield in the northern Land of Fire, the situation remained.
They really could not afford any more delays on the Eastern Front.
So.
Uchiha Minamoto intended to strike straight at the enemy's heart!
Land of Whirlpools, Kirigakure camp.
The temporary camp stood on a stretch of coastal high ground in the Land of Whirlpools, sheltered from the wind and facing the sun, overlooking the entire expanse of sea.
Simple fortifications surrounded the camp and stood within it. Elite Kirigakure ninja were stationed throughout, keeping the camp running normally.
Mei Terumi was in her private tent, discussing their next plan of action with Ao.
"Any news from the Fourth?"
"Same as ever. Cold as a Human Puppet."
Ao still wore an eyepatch over his right eye, a disguise to keep anyone from discovering it.
"But he's still gathering forces from